Gynecological infections are quite common. Approximately one-third of women are affected by gynecological infections in the course of their lifetime.

The typical symptoms for these infections are abnormal discharge, pain, itching, and redness.

Gynecological infections are broadly classified into sexually transmitted and non-sexually transmitted. Fortunately, gynecological infections treatment exists for most of the infections.

Common Gynecological Infections and Their Treatment

Vaginitis

Vaginitis is the inflammation of the vagina, accompanied by a discharge, itching, and pain. It is caused by the change in the regular balance of vaginal bacteria.

Vaginitis falls into three categories:

  • Vaginosis – Your doctor will prescribe metronidazole (Flagyl). You can apply Metronidazole (MetroGel) gel or clindamycin (Cleocin) cream to your vagina for relief.
  • Yeast infections – They are often treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream. You can also treat it with oral antifungal tablets, for example, fluconazole (Diflucan).
  • Trichomoniasis – Your doctor will likely prescribe metronidazole (Flagyl) tablets.

Candida

Candida is a gynecological infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans. It is a common fungal infection causing vaginal pain, pruritus, and discharge.

If you are experiencing the symptoms, visit your doctor, who will confirm it through testing. Oral or vaginal antifungals often treat candida infection. Your doctor will probably advise you on vaginal hygiene, soap substitutes, and local irritants that can cause candida infection.

Genital Herpes

Herpes simplex virus (HSV1) is a common anogenital infection with an incubation period of 2-14 days.1 HSV1 can be asymptomatic, or it can present symptoms of painful ulceration, painful urination, and discharge.

Your doctor will prescribe the use of saline bathing, topical lidocaine, and analgesia. Irregular antiviral treatment will also reduce the duration of HSV1 outbreaks to two days.

HSV1 is a lifelong condition and can be transmitted during outbreaks and also from asymptomatic viral shedding. The use of condoms can reduce HSV1 transmission by 50%.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection, but it is asymptomatic in approximately 70% of women. Some of the symptoms of chlamydia include post-coital bleeding, painful urination, abdominal pain, and smelly vaginal discharge.

Your doctor will use nucleic acid amplification testing to diagnose chlamydia through self-swabs from your lower vagina is still acceptable and less invasive.

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, either doxycycline or azithromycin. Part of the treatment is to contact tracing and the treatment of your partner to reduce the risk of re-infection.

Gonorrhea

You probably have heard about this STI. It is asymptomatic in 50% of the women, while the other 50% experience changes in vaginal discharge while 25% experience mild lower abdominal pain.

The diagnosis for gonorrhea is dependent on your sexual history and NAAT testing.

Treatment for simple gonorrhea entails a single ceftriaxone 500mg intramuscular dose and 1g of oral azithromycin. If you test positive for gonorrhea, an additional chlamydia test will be conducted.

Common Gynecological Infections and Their Treatment Are Avoidable

Gynecological infections are common in women, and in most cases, they are asymptomatic.

Gynecological infections treatment is straightforward, unless in chronic STIs.

Given the asymptomatic nature of most gynecological infections, ensure you have protected sex and test regularly.

Links to sources used

  1. Genital Herpes – CDC Fact Sheet (Detailed) https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm